Parents return children to classrooms despite kidnapping threats, trusting Allah and demanding security

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Schools in parts of northern Nigeria reopened on Monday after months of closure caused by mass student abductions that shook communities and exposed deep security challenges in the region.

The schools were shut following the kidnapping of hundreds of students in November, incidents that highlighted the fragile safety situation in areas affected by criminal gangs and Islamist insurgents. Despite lingering fears, authorities have allowed some schools to resume academic activities.

The federal government said in a circular issued last month that improved security arrangements had created a safer environment for students and teachers, though specific details of the measures were not disclosed.

In northern Kaduna State, returning to school has been emotionally difficult for many students. A 17-year-old girl preparing to resume at a Federal Government College boarding school said she missed the sense of community and companionship she shared with her teachers and classmates during the forced break.

For parents, the decision has been even more painful. Haruna Danjuma, the student’s father, said fear of kidnapping weighed heavily on his mind, but denying his child education was not an option.

“A child is a gift from Almighty Allah, and it is my duty as a Muslim and a parent to ensure she is educated,” he said. “At the same time, it is the responsibility of the government to protect our children.”

In Niger State, however, where more than 300 students and staff were abducted in November, many schools remain closed. Authorities said institutions in areas still facing serious security threats would not reopen for now.

Saint Mary’s Catholic School in the Papiri community was among those affected, with the Christian Association of Nigeria confirming that the state government had directed vulnerable areas to keep schools shut until further notice.

Niger State Commissioner for Education, Hadiza Mohammed, said the decision was guided by caution, stressing that the safety of students, teachers and school communities remains paramount, as families continue to balance faith, fear, and the right of children to learn.

Source: Reuters